Alerfex
Generic Name
Fexofenadine Hydrochloride
Manufacturer
Unimed Unihealth Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| alerfex 180 mg tablet | ৳ 8.00 | ৳ 80.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Alerfex 180 mg Tablet contains fexofenadine, a non-sedating antihistamine used to relieve symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives).
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
180 mg once daily, or 60 mg twice daily for seasonal allergic rhinitis. For chronic idiopathic urticaria, 180 mg once daily.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment is generally required for elderly patients with normal renal function.
Renal_impairment
For patients with impaired renal function (creatinine clearance < 80 mL/min), the recommended starting dose is 60 mg once daily for seasonal allergic rhinitis and chronic idiopathic urticaria.
How to Take
Take the tablet orally with water, preferably before a meal. Do not take with fruit juice (e.g., grapefruit, orange, apple juice) as it may reduce absorption.
Mechanism of Action
Fexofenadine is a selective peripheral H1-receptor antagonist. It works by blocking histamine H1 receptors, thereby preventing the actions of histamine, which is responsible for allergic symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and hives, without causing significant drowsiness.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Within 1 hour (for symptomatic relief)
Excretion
Primarily excreted unchanged in feces (80%) and urine (11-12%).
Half life
Approximately 11-15 hours
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed after oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations reached in 2-3 hours.
Metabolism
Minimally metabolized (approximately 5% is metabolized)
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to fexofenadine or any component of the formulation.
- Children under 6 years for 180 mg tablet due to dosage.
Drug Interactions
Erythromycin and Ketoconazole
Concomitant use with erythromycin or ketoconazole may increase plasma levels of fexofenadine due to altered gastrointestinal absorption and/or biliary excretion. However, this does not typically lead to clinically significant QT interval prolongation.
Antacids containing aluminum and magnesium
May decrease the absorption of fexofenadine. It is advisable to separate the administration of fexofenadine from aluminum- or magnesium-containing antacids by about 2 hours.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
In adults, symptoms of overdose may include dizziness, drowsiness, and dry mouth. Management is symptomatic and supportive, including gastric lavage and general supportive measures.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use in pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Fexofenadine is excreted into breast milk; use with caution in nursing mothers, only if clearly needed.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to fexofenadine or any component of the formulation.
- Children under 6 years for 180 mg tablet due to dosage.
Drug Interactions
Erythromycin and Ketoconazole
Concomitant use with erythromycin or ketoconazole may increase plasma levels of fexofenadine due to altered gastrointestinal absorption and/or biliary excretion. However, this does not typically lead to clinically significant QT interval prolongation.
Antacids containing aluminum and magnesium
May decrease the absorption of fexofenadine. It is advisable to separate the administration of fexofenadine from aluminum- or magnesium-containing antacids by about 2 hours.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
In adults, symptoms of overdose may include dizziness, drowsiness, and dry mouth. Management is symptomatic and supportive, including gastric lavage and general supportive measures.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use in pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Fexofenadine is excreted into breast milk; use with caution in nursing mothers, only if clearly needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 24-36 months from manufacturing date.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Generic available
Clinical Trials
Fexofenadine has been extensively studied in numerous clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety for seasonal allergic rhinitis and chronic idiopathic urticaria across various populations. Studies confirm its non-sedating profile.
Lab Monitoring
- No specific laboratory monitoring is generally required for routine use. Monitor renal function in patients with known renal impairment.
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients on proper administration to maximize efficacy (avoid fruit juices).
- Counsel on the non-sedating nature but to still monitor for individual reactions.
- Review concomitant medications, especially antacids, erythromycin, and ketoconazole.
Patient Guidelines
- Take this medicine as prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not crush or chew the tablet; swallow it whole.
- Avoid taking antacids containing aluminum or magnesium within 2 hours of taking Alerfex.
- Avoid consuming fruit juices while on this medication.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Although fexofenadine is a non-sedating antihistamine, some individuals may experience drowsiness or dizziness. Exercise caution when driving or operating machinery until you know how the medicine affects you.
Lifestyle Advice
- Identify and avoid triggers for your allergies (e.g., pollen, dust mites, pet dander).
- Maintain good indoor air quality.
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